Quoted: Howard Zinn on Living

Last week, I was overwhelmed with sadness and disbelief as I watched the Boston Marathon bombing story unfold.  I felt such pain for the families and friends who lost loved ones, for the people who must re-learn their bodies and face entirely new lives, for another city that lost its sense of security.  But I also felt pain for the innocent American citizens who received hateful threats and faced accusations simply because of the color of their skin.  It has been difficult for me to see the Boston events being used to fuel anti-immigration arguments, to advocate torture, to support stripping the Constitutional rights of an American citizen.

As we struggle to understand how two young men who spent much of their lives in the United States could have committed such a heinous act, I realize that we may never find any satisfactory answers.  I hope that we are able to learn as much as we can from this incident, but I also fiercely hope that we are able to hold on to what makes this country so great during that process.

It can be difficult, but in the face of fear, hate, and what often feels like simply evil, I try to remember that there is also so much good in the world.  Whenever I feel myself getting too negative, I find and re-read this quote by Howard Zinn.  His words are beautiful, and ultimately, so true.  They never fail to reset my perspective.

Traveled: Day One in Hong Kong

Almost a year after our trip last May, and I’m finally getting around to posting pictures from the Hong Kong portion of our trip.  My husband noted that it’s been a long time since our vacation.  I’ve decided to embrace the notion of better late than never!  The images in this post are from Repulse Bay, Central, and Victoria Peak.

Floral Stylings: Chin Chin Cherie, Tulips, & Gerber Daisies

I recently discovered these white and green flowers, and they are a new favorite!  The sign at the bodega identified them as “chin chin,” and through some Internet searching I’ve also found them called “chin chin cherie.”  In addition to being beautiful, these flowers are quite hardy.  I’ve had them now for almost two weeks and they still look relatively fresh.  Almost one week after buying the chin chin cherie, I purchased some brilliant red tulips and gerber daisies to add to the mix.

Wishing you a happy weekend!

Wish List: Yellow + Neutrals

Lately I’m loving a bright pop of yellow against classic neutrals.  Here are a few favorite versions of this color combo. The lemon/macadamia tart and the DIY planter just might have to make it onto a list of future projects.

Meyer Lemon Macadamia Nut Tart via  “love and olive oil”

Michelle Lesniak Franklin’s design via “Project Runway”

painting by Mauro via “Design for Mankind”

DIY neon planter via “The Brick House”